Project based learning (PBL) is a more hands on approach to traditional learning. When using PBL, students are learning through a project that utilizes a variety of resources to enhance the learning experience to achieve higher levels of learning. PBL takes a step by step group process for research of a subject to an in depth level organized around an open-ended driving question.
Why use PBL in Education?
PBL is more student driven than traditional assignments and tests the students comprehension levels at greater depth. Getting the students more involved in their learning process helps them achieve the higher levels of Bloom’s Taxonomy of comprehension. The students can get involved with other classmates and learn how to work in collaborative groups while learning a hands on approach to learning.They can get to know their group member's strengths, how to contribute to the group, and how to get everyone in the group involved. Students tend to be more interested in the assignment when it is a project. Project base learning is a different way in learning new topics. Rather than sitting in a desk and reading or listening to the teacher talk, the students are doing a hands on project that might be more fun and interesting to them. They will remember the information in the way in which it was taught. So they will be able to contain more information in a different way rather than by reading and listening. Project base learning will be a new and exciting way for students to learn.
Planning a PBL lesson:
Begin with the end in mind.
Ask yourself: "What do you want the students to create? Why are they creating it?" Then work backwards from there. Use curriculum and standards to direct your planning.
Oregon State Standards - use this site to help you find the curriculum connections. The person in charge of curriculum connections should provide the intended grade level, the subject areas involved in the project, and the specific standards met.
Create A Driving Question.
Break down the project theme into a significant, meaningful question. It should require higher-level thinking to answer it.
Every project should be driven by an explicit set of outcomes that encompass the content and skills students are expected to learn. The assessment is share with students at the beginning of the project and throughout the process.
Map the project.
A project map is the step-by-step process the students go through to complete the project. It provides the sequence of activities, structures the project, and directs students. The project should be centered around hands-on activities and should include plans for differentiation.
Manage the process.
Although PBL looks chaotic, successful projects are carefully managed by teachers. Teachers become facilitators and guides. They do not transmit information. Students learn to manage themselves and take responsibility for their own work. Self-assessment is built into the project. Teachers can manage the process through checkpoints, milestones, employing problem-solving skills, and using authentic assessment.
Give the project time.
PBL takes time...A LOT of time...both in planning and execution. Projects may last weeks, months, even the entire school year.
Integrate technology throughout the project.
The integration of technology should be seamless and meaningful. This means employing the use of technology in ways that make sense and enhance the experience. PBL projects that truly integrate technology cannot be completed without it.
Identify specific forms of technology to be used. There are numerous forms of technology available...from basics such as the internet, computers, printers, scanners, and document cameras to cutting edge technology such as SMART boards, cell phones, digital cameras, and GPS devices (to name a few).
Describe how the technology listed will be used. Make sure readers have a clear understanding of how to use the technology required to complete the project.
Don't forget software or web apps! If your project requires specific titles, list them as well.
Resources:
You can get more information about PBL's at these following sites: EdutopiaA brief article and video about PBL. PBL Online Tips and suggestions on how to create your own PBL. Buck Institute for Education Information and Resources for Creating PBL Global Schoo Integrated Curriculum Collaborative Help for preparing lesson plans for PBL Math Projects Various PBL projects on the web
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What is Project Based Learning?
Project based learning (PBL) is a more hands on approach to traditional learning. When using PBL, students are learning through a project that utilizes a variety of resources to enhance the learning experience to achieve higher levels of learning. PBL takes a step by step group process for research of a subject to an in depth level organized around an open-ended driving question.Why use PBL in Education?
PBL is more student driven than traditional assignments and tests the students comprehension levels at greater depth. Getting the students more involved in their learning process helps them achieve the higher levels of Bloom’s Taxonomy of comprehension. The students can get involved with other classmates and learn how to work in collaborative groups while learning a hands on approach to learning.They can get to know their group member's strengths, how to contribute to the group, and how to get everyone in the group involved. Students tend to be more interested in the assignment when it is a project. Project base learning is a different way in learning new topics. Rather than sitting in a desk and reading or listening to the teacher talk, the students are doing a hands on project that might be more fun and interesting to them. They will remember the information in the way in which it was taught. So they will be able to contain more information in a different way rather than by reading and listening. Project base learning will be a new and exciting way for students to learn.Planning a PBL lesson:
Resources:
You can get more information about PBL's at these following sites:EdutopiaA brief article and video about PBL.
PBL Online Tips and suggestions on how to create your own PBL.
Buck Institute for Education Information and Resources for Creating PBL
Global Schoo
Integrated Curriculum Collaborative Help for preparing lesson plans for PBL
Math Projects Various PBL projects on the web
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Collaborative BrainstormingYoung Entrepreneurs